By Isle of Wight Observer
The term ‘Steampunk’ was coined in 1987, by K.W. Jetter in “Mortlock Night”, to describe a genre of fantasy and speculative fiction, describing an artistic and cultural movement which explores a world where steam, not electricity, drives technology.
From September 18-20, Ryde will be taken back to the future with the arrival of the annual Steampunk Festival. A celebration of creative Victorian fashion, community bonding, and an imaginative sci-fi world, where 19th-century steam power meets futuristic invention.
The best way to prepare for this weekend is to dress the part, and embrace the retro-futuristic celebration of Victorian science fiction and industrial steam powered technology.
The Apollo Theatre, in Newport, is just the Emporium. From 10.30am tomorrow (Saturday) the theatre is selling off a range of historical clothing and accessories, which will guarantee to turn heads. Members of the wardrobe team will be on hand to give advice on how these can be turned into costumes to delight.
As a follow-up to the sale, and to really get you into the psyche, The Apollo will also be hosting a family day, with a Steampunk theme on Saturday, August 29 at the theatre, when there will be ample opportunity to try out your new costumes, at screenings of the film ‘Hugo’ in the afternoon, and ‘The Prestige’ in the evening – both are cult Steampunk films.
There is no charge for the Hugo showing. Tickets for The Prestige cost £10.